Browns’ player knows he has ‘big shoes’ to fill in vital part of offense
Cleveland Browns have an interesting wrinkle within the offense that has the potential to play a vital role in what this team can do. In 2023, the team needs second-year running back Jerome Ford to take a big step forward. With Kareem Hunt leaving in free agency, there were questions on whether or not the […]
Cleveland Browns have an interesting wrinkle within the offense that has the potential to play a vital role in what this team can do.
In 2023, the team needs second-year running back Jerome Ford to take a big step forward. With Kareem Hunt leaving in free agency, there were questions on whether or not the Browns would add another running back. They chose not to, at least up until this point, so it’s Ford primed to take over that role.
“Big shoes to fill for sure,” said Ford during his Sunday media availability.
The former Cincinnati Bearcat knows the importance of a backup running back in the NFL. They’ll carry their normal workload in the offense but could be called upon at any time to take over that starting role if need be.
Ford believes that he is ready to get out there and see some success this season.
“Just still learning behind Chubb, when the time comes if I’m put in the game, I plan to show everyone what I can do,” he said.
Sure, Hunt’s play took a step back in 2022 and that’s why he remains a free agent. But prior to that he was vital to the team as a pass catcher out of the backfield.
Last season, it was mostly kick returns that Ford handled. He had some good moments there with a long return of 48 yards, that was just one of the 30 returns he had.
“It helped me get a feel for the speed of the game,” Ford explained. “Getting tackled by big dudes, it helped a lot.”
But in terms of running the football, Ford had just eight carries for 12 yards. That’s a small sample size that basically shows nothing. To his benefit though, he’s had perhaps the game’s best back in Chubb to learn behind.
“Nick does 100 percent of everything right. Nick told me he hasn’t been fined or late to a meeting since he’s been in the NFL,” Ford said of Chubb’s professionalism.
Cleveland’s backup running back has a good mindset heading into what could be a big year for him, where he can get his name out around the NFL.
“I feel like you can always be better. I don’t think you ever arrive at something.”
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Featured image via Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports.
